Token does not want to start a fight, but it is fair to claim that there are some problems with press fit bottom brackets. They creak, do not last all that long, and are installed and removed with tools that cavemen would recognise. Token's Ninja bottom bracket solves the creaking issues, improves bearing life, and adds stiffness to the bottom bracket.
This model features Token's TBT bearings. TBT bearings are made with ceramic balls and extremely hard races for very low rolling resistance and long-lasting performance.
Token starts with their Fusion technology, which is a combination of plastic and fibre that cover an alloy bottom bracket shell. The composite material allows it to be precisely machined and fit snugly in the frame so it does not move in the frame and sound like grandma's clicking and creaking arthritic knees. However, plastic and fibre do not do a good job of supporting bearings; poorly supported bearings can wear prematurely.
Token houses the bearings in an alloy shell and wraps it with plastic and fibre. This fusion of the three materials provides the bearings a solid platform to sit on and extends their lives. Token went even further by extending the alloy shell so the right and left sides lock together. This locks the frame, cranks, and bottom bracket together and provides unparalleled stiffness.
The Ninja bottom bracket can be purchased individually or in a package that includes adapters to fit several different frame and crankset combinations.
The Ninja bottom bracket does not just solve the problem of noisy bottom brackets; it actually improves the life of the bottom bracket and makes your bike stiffer. There are not many times a replacement part actually improves your bike, but put one on your bike and you will wonder why you did not install a Ninja sooner.
Product Details:
- Technology: Fusion technology (plastic and fibre composite covering an alloy shell)
- Bearing Type: TBT (Token Bearing Technology)
- Bearing Material: Ceramic balls and extremely hard races
- Design Feature: Extended alloy shell locks right and left sides together for unparalleled stiffness